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What is Bhang?
Nowadays, it is very difficult to count all the methods of consuming/smoking cannabis. Blunts, bongs, joints, modern vaporizers, these are just some of them. There are also more traditional ways of consuming marijuana that date back several thousand years. Bhang it is not just an ordinary drink, it is part of the rich culture and spirituality of India, where it has played a key role for centuries. This traditional Indian hemp drink is not only popular during religious festivals, but also has important significance in Ayurvedic medicine.
The history and origin of the drink
Bhang has deep roots in ancient Indian scriptures such as the Atharvaveda, which was composed around 2000-1400 BC. In Hinduism, it is closely associated with the worship of the god Shiva, which according to legend he brought bhang on the ground. This drink is used during religious festivals such as Holi and Shivratri, where it is consumed for a deep spiritual experience.
The presence and use of the drink bhang can be traced in texts such as the Atharvaveda, one of the four Vedas – the main collections of texts in Hinduism.
atharvaveda
This ancient book, dating from between 2000 and 1400 BC, is one of the earliest sources to mention the properties of marijuana. Bhang is described as “vijaya,” meaning “victor,” and is praised for its healing and spiritual properties. In the Atharva Veda, marijuana is considered one of five sacred plants that can relieve anxiety and provide relief.
Ritual and medical use
In the Vedas, bhang is often described as a substance that can aid in communication with the spiritual world, as well as a remedy for various ailments. Its use is related to rituals, meditation, and healing.
Relationship with Hinduism
In Hinduism, bhang is particularly associated with the god Shiva. Legend has it that Shiva discovered the properties of marijuana while resting under a leaf of the plant. From that moment on, it became an important part of his cult, symbolizing purity and spiritual power.
Social and cultural resonances
In ancient Indian scriptures, bhang is not seen as just a drug or psychoactive substance, but as an important social and cultural element. Its use in ceremonies and religious festivals emphasizes its role in building community and experiencing spirituality together.
These ancient writings emphasize how deeply rooted marijuana is in Indian culture and tradition, treating it with respect and recognizing its multifaceted impact on social, religious, and medical life. The use of bhang has also spread beyond India's borders, becoming part of the global culture of marijuana consumption. However, in many regions of the world, this traditional Indian drink remains illegal or regulated.
Ingredients and preparation of Bhang hemp drink
Basic ingredients of Bhang drink:
- 2 cups of water;
- 3 cups of warm milk;
- 14 grams of fresh hemp leaves and flowers;
- 1/2 cup of honey or sugar;
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger;
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala spice;
- 1/2 teaspoon of anise;
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom;
- 1/4 teaspoon ground fennel;
- 1/2 teaspoon of rose water;
For decoration, you can use e.g. rose petals, crushed almonds or pistachios, mint leaves
Method of preparing bhang
If you already have the ingredients listed above prepared, it's time to start preparing this amazing drink. Don't worry, the drink is prepared quickly. Here we go:
Recipe No. 1:
- Preparation of the paste: First wash the hemp leaves and flowers, then grind them into a paste. You can use a mortar or blender.
- Cooking: Boil water in a pot and then add the prepared marijuana paste to it. Cook over low heat for about 10 minutes.
- Adding milk and spices: Add milk and spices to the mixture. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Sweetening and cooling: After cooking, add sugar according to taste. Then set the drink aside to cool.
- Seepage: Strain the drink through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove any leftover leaves and flowers.
- Administration: The drink is usually served chilled.
Recipe No. 2
- Start by shredding the cannabis leaves into smaller pieces.
- Then pour water into the pot and add the previously prepared leaves.
- Now cook for about 30 minutes on low heat.
- When the water reduces by half, add the milk along with cumin seeds, cardamom and anise.
- Cook for 30 minutes again - stir from time to time.
- Remove the pot from the heat, strain the entire mixture using a strainer to remove the spice seeds and leaves.
- Now mix in the butter, sugar or honey until you obtain a uniform consistency.
- You can add cashew nuts and raisins.
NOTE: Check the status of marijuana in your country, if hemp with THC remains illegal where you are, use a legal substitute, e.g. hemp without THC.
Note:
Remember that bhang is a powerful drink and can have a strong psychoactive effect. Marijuana use is regulated by law in different countries, so make sure you are operating within the law. Also, due to possible side effects, this drink should be consumed responsibly and in moderation.
Summation
Bhang is not just a drink; it is a window into the rich culture and spirituality of India. Its consumption unites people in their religious practices and daily lives, serving as a symbol of unity and community. Preparing and consuming bhang is an experience that combines history, culture, and spirituality, making it a unique part of the Indian tradition. If you are looking for other ways to consume cannabis, be sure to check out our post entitled popular ways of consuming marijuana.
